It matters little whether one is an archaeology buff, a nature lover, or someone on a journey to attain spiritual comfort; Vadodara has it all for everyone. Below is a comprehensive guide to the places to visit in Vadodara, including some of its major landmarks, natural beauty, and historical sites encompassing the essence of Gujarat tourism.
1. Sayaji Gardens: Sayaji Garden Vadodara is one of the biggest and most notable parks in Vadodara, also called Kamati Baug. This enormous garden was developed by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, a lush green oasis right within a busy city. The area spans 113 acres. The garden has beautiful lawns, fountains, floral beds and more to it. Sayaji Garden Baroda timings are pretty suitable for strolling in the morning and evening time, thus giving each visitor a serene ambience.
The garden also provides a mini-zoo aquarium and even a planetarium which make it an excellent destination for families. Some of the attractions include Toy Train, which runs across the park area and brings wonder to both the visitors and the children.
Sayaji Garden Baroda Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (planetarium and toy train rides may have nominal charges)
2. Sursagar Lake and Shiva Statue: Sursagar Lake finds its place at the centre of the city. As it is one of the artificial water bodies, it presents a peaceful haven for both the locals as well as the tourists. The lake is bordered by embankments and boasts a grand statue of Shiva in the middle. The statue extends up to 120 feet from the lake. The whole city view can be seen amidst the spiritual silence carried by the statue of Lord Shiva. During the evenings, it is beautifully illuminated with the statue of Shiva and people converge there to sit near water. Boating facilities are also available and one can just sit there and feel the beauty.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the light show and a peaceful atmosphere
Entry Fee: Free
3. Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery: Amongst the must-visit places of the city, the Vadodara Museum finds its abode at the heart of the Sayaji Gardens. The Museum Vadodara with its infinite treasure of art, artefacts, and exhibits gives one an insight into the history of Vadodara and Gujarat. Alongside its collection, archaeology, anthropology, geology, and natural history have not been absent, nor paintings by celebrated artists.
The Vadodara Museum ticket price is very pocket-friendly and the whole visit is worth every single rupee for one who has an interest in art and history. On its right side is the Picture Gallery, holding European paintings and a greatly appreciated collection of Mughal miniatures.
Vadodara Museum Ticket Price: INR 10 for Indian nationals, INR 200 for foreign tourists
Timing: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Monday is closed
4. Laxmi Vilas Palace: This overview of the city of Vadodara cannot be considered complete unless one pays a visit to the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace Vadodara. It is considered one of the biggest private houses in the world covering an area over four times the area of Buckingham Palace. Indo-Saracenic architecture beautifies this grand edifice with Indian, Mughal, and Gothic elements.
The palace boasts exquisite decoration of wall art, chandeliers, stained glasses, and European paintings inside its walls. Laxmi Vilas Palace Images are a treat that leads one to the fantastic interiors and lovely gardens of kingly splendour. The Laxmi Vilas Palace Vadodara timings would prove to be apt for the tourist seeking a relaxed easy-to-gaze palace.
Laxmi Vilas Palace Vadodara Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (On Mondays)
Entry Fee: Rs 150 for Indian citizens, Rs 500 for foreigners
5. Kirti Mandir: Amongst the other heritage sites in Vadodara is Kirti Mandir Vadodara, an important part of the memory of the Gaekwad royal family. The monument was built near Laxmi Vilas Palace by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III to pay tribute to his ancestors. The architectural beauty includes murals, sculptures, and a central spire. The statues of the Gaekwad rulers are also included within Kirti Mandir. It is a historically important place, yet still pretty peaceful for meditation and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
Entry Fee: Free
6. Vadodara Zoo: Inside the grounds of Sayaji Gardens, there is a popular family tourist attraction called Vadodara Zoo. The zoo houses several animals including lions, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds. It provides an opportunity for children to learn about wildlife conservation and affords the most educational experience.
Vadodara Zoo Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Thursday Closed).
Ticket Charge of Vadodara Zoo: INR 10 per head
7. Trimandir Vadodara: Trimandir Vadodara is an excellent temple, embodying the three main Hindu gods: Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Brahma. This sacred area, at the boundary of the city, resonates with spiritual explorers as well as worshipers. The architectural space abounds with excellence since the carved walls are ornamentally decorated and the surroundings are not harshly disturbing. It presents an ideal environment for meditation and prayer.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening to enjoy peacefulness
Entry Fee: Free
8. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary: It is a must-visit place for nature lovers. It is about 70 Km away from Vadodara, the Sanctuary also houses leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and birds of many kinds. It is a nice habitat for wildlife enthusiasts because they can see the natural habitat of the animals.
The sanctuary is famous for its beautiful landscapes, dense forests, and hilly ground. Thus, the site has been established as one of the trekking and nature photography destinations. People can take great Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary pictures and avoid the city rush
Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary Tickets: INR 20 per person
Best Time to Visit: Winter months (November to February)
9. Surya Narayan Temple Vadodara: Another notable place of worship is the Surya Narayan Temple Vadodara which has been dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. The temple is a spiritual abode for the devotees and is a place of serenity where meditation and reflection can easily be undertaken. This temple with beautiful carvings gives off an atmosphere of serenity and appeals to devotees who are also interested in architecture as well as in history.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset
Entry Fee: Free
Vadodara boasts a rich mix of experiences: the beautiful aurate of Laxmi Vilas Palace Vadodara, the spectacular view of Sursagar Lake Shiva statue, and the wildlife adventure in Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary. Best places to visit in Vadodara, history, nature, or spirituality - anything is sure to be very rich in the travel experience that awaits it. These may be a part of your itinerary to watch the cultural richness of the city but get up close and personal with the Gujarat tourism and so many facets to it.
